EU Photonics Research and Innovation Priorities Beyond 2027
The European Commission’s Study on Strategic Digital Technologies for EU Research and Innovation Funding Beyond 2027 – Annex 10: Photonics, published in September 2026, identifies three major priorities for European photonics development: (1) advancing photonic integrated circuits (PICs) using materials such as indium phosphide, silicon nitride and lithium niobate; (2) strengthening heterogeneous integration and advanced packaging to combine photonic and electronic components in more efficient systems; and (3) expanding access to pilot lines, testing facilities and reliability laboratories to accelerate the transition from research prototypes to industrial production. For photonics SMEs, the study provides insights into future EU investment priorities, technological opportunities and the infrastructure needed for commercialisation.